Ram Vilas Paswan was a veteran Indian politician and one of the most prominent Dalit leaders in post-independence India. Known for his long parliamentary career and ability to work with governments
"My father sought an appointment and waited for more than three months but Rahul Gandhi did not relent," said Chirag Paswan, who at that time too was keen to leave the UPA and join the NDA.
He was known for being a senior Dalit leader, founder of the Lok Janshakti Party, and a Union Minister who served under six different Prime Ministers across both NDA and UPA alliances.
Over his career, Paswan held key ministerial portfolios such as Railways, Labour, Communications, and Consumer Affairs. His last position was Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (2014–2020).
Founded by Ram Vilas Paswan in 2000, the LJP is a Bihar-based political party focused on Dalit rights, social justice, and regional development. After his death, his son Chirag Paswan took over its leadership.
Paswan had the unique ability to work with both Congress-led and BJP-led alliances. He served in various cabinets under Prime Ministers including V.P. Singh, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi.
He is remembered as a committed social justice leader, a champion for Dalit rights, and one of the most adaptable and enduring figures in Indian politics. His son Chirag Paswan carries forward his political legacy.